How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Photographer

There’s no doubt that when you think of ‘wedding’, the first things to come to mind are wedding gowns, groom, cake, food, site, guests, and overall celebration. However, one of the most important things for couples to bear in mind involves the process of capturing the entire day through the lens of a photographer. Your wedding day is a moment in time that will last forever, so you would want to choose someone who is capable of telling the story for generations to come with the aid of his or her camera.

So what are you looking for in a photographer?

Before you begin choosing just the right photographer, you must decide on what kind of pictures you want. Do you want the images in only black and white or all in color, or do you want a mix of both? Is the wedding going to be held outdoors or indoors? How many people will be at the wedding and will it be easy for a photographer to maneuver his or her way around without distractions? How much time will be devoted to ‘planned’ shots – this involves the traditional images of bridal couple with family and friends – and how much time will the photographer have to do impromptu or spur-of-the-moment shots? Does the church or reception site even allow photographers on the premises?

The next step to choosing the perfect wedding photographer is going to the WPJA (Wedding Photojournalist Association) website. This website gives you the ability to search for wedding photographers in your region or area and selecting someone with proven credentials and a portfolio that is well recognized. Take the time to peruse the website to find a photographer that will work best with you, and one you believe shares or can capture the essence of your special day.

When you have found this photographer, try to set up an appointment and meet with them face-to-face. Get to know him or her on a personal level and establish a relationship based on not just business, but on reaching a common ground with your expectations. Give the photographer an idea of just what you’re looking for, the venue and settings, and listen to his or her ideas on what works best. Excellent photographers know how to adapt to different and difficult situations, so be sure to ask if they are able to handle any unforeseen incidents that may arise.

If you are on a budget, look for a photographer that is willing to negotiate and accept your price range. Establishing this from the get-go is important so it eliminates any misunderstandings or miscommunications once the event is over. If you are still unsure of the photographer, you can always seek referrals by asking friends or family members about their experiences with photographers used in their weddings.

Your wedding day is a time that you should never forget, and being able to capture every wonderful moment is a task that requires the best from a photographer you can rely on.